Knights post fourth straight shutout win

By MATT KING
Daily Journal Sports Writer

FARMINGTON — The Farmington soccer team attempted 11 corner kicks and 25 total shots with constant pressure in the offensive zone, and achieved the first 20-win season in program history on Monday night.

Junior Pete Grindel increased his season total to 41 goals with a hat-trick, and senior goalkeeper John Schnurbusch earned his fourth straight shutout in a 4-0 quarterfinal victory over Fredericktown.

Connor Eaton added a first-half tally and Trevor Ratliff notched two assists as the top-seeded Knights (20-1) advanced to meet Perryville in tonight’s semifinal round at the Class 2, District 1 Tournament.

A creative play helped Farmington surge ahead to stay during the seventh minute, as Ratliff headed a short cross directly toward Grindel, who ripped a right-footed drive into the net before the ball touched the surface.

With several starters resting at the 20-minute mark, the Knights received a spark from senior Braden LaHay. Eaton buried a rebound for a 2-0 advantage after LaHay stole possession and made a strong run down the right side.

Farmington maintained command of the match with sharper passing after the break. Grindel emerged from a crowd in the penalty area for his second goal after taking an assist from Will Hitson.

Tyler Hagy made 11 saves as the Blackcats improved upon two 10-0 losses against Farmington during the regular season. A leaping punch in the second half stopped a dangerous rising shot from Eaton.

Fredericktown (3-17) produced its two best chances on sudden counters from midfield, but Schnurbusch handled an initial lengthy drive from junior Caleb Killian while another chip sailed over the crossbar.

Grindel capped the scoring during the 71st minute after freshman Sam Thompson caught the left post from 20 yards out in the 64th.

Perryville defeated Sikeston 2-0 in other tournament action on Monday. Second-seeded Notre Dame survived overtime against De Soto to prevail 3-2, and Hillsboro topped Festus 5-1.

Grindel nearly had two additional goals before intermission. Hagy deflected a low drive off the near post following a quick throw, then stopped a penalty kick after Ratliff was taken down in the box near the 30:00 mark.